"The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner" is a 1962 British film directed by Tony Richardson. It is based on a short story by Alan Sillitoe and follows the life of a young man named Colin Smith, who is serving time in a borstal. The film explores themes of rebellion, individuality, and the struggles of working-class youth in post-war England. Colin discovers his talent for long-distance running, which becomes a metaphor for his internal conflict and desire for freedom. As he trains for a race, he grapples with the expectations of authority figures and his own sense of identity, ultimately leading to a poignant climax that reflects his defiance.